Major cast changes for Phantom London | The Phantom of the Opera Major cast changes for Phantom London 10 August, 2012 FROM MONDAY 3 SEPTEMBER 2012 MARCUS LOVETT TO STAR AS ‘THE PHANTOM’ SIMON THOMAS AS ‘RAOUL’ LARA MARTINS AS ‘CARLOTTA’ AND ANNA O’BYRNE AS ‘CHRISTINE’ AT CERTAIN PERFORMANCES Major cast changes will take place in the smash hit Andrew Lloyd Webber musical “THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA” from Monday 3 September. Joining the company will be Marcus Lovett as ‘The Phantom’, Simon Thomas as ‘Raoul’, Lara Martins as ‘Carlotta’ and Anna O’Byrne as ‘Christine’ at certain performances. “THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA” will continue to star Sofia Escobar as ‘Christine’, Cheryl McAvoy as ‘Madame Giry’, Jeremy Secomb as ‘Piangi’, Barry James as ‘Monsieur Firmin’, Gareth Snook as ‘Monsieur André’ and Anna Forbes as ‘Meg Giry’.

Marcus Lovett made his Broadway debut in the original Broadway production of “Les Misérables”. His other Broadway credits include the title role in “King David” at the New Amsterdam Theatre, ‘The Phantom’ in “The Phantom of the Opera” at the Majestic Theatre, ‘Billy Bigelow’ in “Carousel” at the Vivian Beaumont Theatre and ‘Alex Dillingham’ in “Aspects of Love” at the Broadhurst Theatre. In the West End Marcus also originated the role of ‘The Man’ in “Whistle Down the Wind” at the Aldwych Theatre. He has been a soloist at Carnegie hall, L’Opera De Paris and the Royal Albert Hall, and is on the cast recordings of “Les Misérables”, “Whistle Down The Wind” and “Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Fiftieth Birthday Celebration at The Royal Albert Hall”. His debut solo album “Marcus Lovett, The Give Moment” was released in 2008. Marcus is also currently the voice of the promotions for “Good Morning America” on ABC and “The Late Show with David Letterman.” Simon Thomas recently starred as ‘Warner Huntington III’ in “Legally Blonde” at the Savoy Theatre.

Other recent theatre credits include ‘Rapunzel’s Prince’ in “Into The Woods” at the Open Air Theatre, ‘Tarzan’ in “Tarzan” at the Theatre Neue Flora in Hamburg, ‘Lucien’ in “Marguerite” at the Theatre Royal Haymarket, “Make Me A Song” at the New Players Theatre and “Merry Wives Of Windsor” at the RSC. Lara Martins is a soprano who has enjoyed an international career singing a wide-ranging repertoire. Recent operatic engagements include ‘Sofia’ in “Il Signor Bruschino by Rossini” for the Opéra National de Bordeaux, ‘Blondchen’ in “Entfürung aus dem Serail” for Opera de Marseille, ‘Susanna’ in “Le Nozze di Figaro” for Teatro da Trindade in Lisbon and ‘Clarissa’ in “Die Drei Pintos” and ‘Princess Hirvaia’ in “Dick Whittington and his Cat” at the Bloomsbury Theatre in London.

Lara has been awarded several prizes including the English Song Prize and the Anne Wyburd Award at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and first prize at the Concurso de Interpretação de Música do Estoril in Portugal. Anna O’Byrne most recently starred as ‘Christine Daaé’ in the Australian Premiere production of “Love Never Dies”. Anna also features in the filmed version of the production which was released on DVD and Blu-Ray and screened in cinemas all over the world. Anna made her professional debut in the Australian production of “The Phantom of the Opera”, where she covered and performed the role of ‘Christine Daaé’. Anna has also been a Principal Artist at Victorian Opera where she played ‘Polly Peachum’ in the Malthouse Theatre/Victorian Opera co-production of “The Threepenny Opera”, ‘The Gossip’ in “Angélique” and ‘Pamina’ in “Die Zauberflöte”. Other operatic performances include ‘Tamiri’ in “Il Re Pastore” for Lyric Opera of Melbourne, “Die Fledermaus” for In Good Company and “La Clemenza di Tito” for the VCA Opera Studio.

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA became the longest running show in Broadway history on 9 January 2006 when it celebrated its 7,486th performance, surpassing the previous record holder “Cats”. This coincided with the Broadway and the US national touring company celebrating an unprecedented 20,000 performances in the United States. In October 2010 the London production celebrated its 10,000th performance, and in October 2011 it celebrated its 25th Anniversary with a spectacular staging of “The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall” which was screened live in cinemas all over the world and subsequently released on DVD. THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA has won over 60 major theatre awards, including seven Tonys on Broadway and three Olivier Awards in the West End. It won the ‘Most Popular Musical Audience Award’, voted by the public, in the 2002 Laurence Olivier Awards.

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, which opened at Her Majesty’s Theatre on 9 October 1986 starred Michael Crawford as ‘The Phantom’ and Sarah Brightman as ‘Christine.’ It is produced by Cameron Mackintosh and The Really Useful Theatre Company Limited. Worldwide, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA has grossed over £3.2 billion. The box office revenues are higher than any film or stage play in history, including “Titanic”, “ET” and “Star Wars”. It has been seen in 147 cities in 27 countries and played to over 130 million people. THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is currently showing in London, New York, Budapest, Las Vegas, and Tokyo. The new 25th Anniversary Production is also currently on tour in the UK. Top Ten Actors Playing the Phantom of the Opera says: March 17, 2012 at 1:29 am Who made up this list? Someone’s who’s deaf? Butler can’t sing AT ALL. And how completely irresponsible of you to omit Hugh Panaro. Hugh is the BEST BROADWAY Phantom ever. Shame on you.

says: March 17, 2012 at 1:57 am I think the reason they probably posted Gerard Butler up there, is that I’m sure his role in the 2004 movie peaked a lot of interest in PotO in people that didn’t already have interest in it. Which, I think is a good thing. And, I wouldn’t say his singing was bad, it just wasn’t classically trained as everybody expected it to be. I used to really think that nobody could and would ever outdo Michael Crawford, but I do have to admit I’m entirely smitten with Ramin’s take on the Phantom. He puts so much emotion into that role, as they say, I’m surprised he has any left after each show. His singing actually makes my heart ache at the sad parts. Wondeful job to all the Phantoms on the list, especially my dear favorites ranked #1 and #2. Katherine says: March 17, 2012 at 12:09 pm Michael Crawford will always be my favorite.

I never even got to see him on stage because the show came out when I was both (haha) but the amount of emotion I can hear just from the CD tells me he was amazing. But I definitely agree Hugh Panaro should be on the list! I finally got to see it in Broadway and his performance blew me away. Even the description for Butler you guys put for him describes why he shouldn’t be on this list. All of these Phantoms are experienced in their art and Butler didn’t even sing before the movie. He did decent, but definitely not on the top ten. Lindsay says: March 18, 2012 at 12:05 am Colm Wilkinson definitely deserved a top three spot, but I am SO happy to see you put Ramin up there in second… he deserves it!! Aside from his absolutely stunning voice, he has been one of the very few who managed to re-define the character (so well)! Katie says: March 18, 2012 at 1:19 am What about Davis Gaines?? He played the role both in LA and NY and totaled more performances than Michael himself.

Having seen Michael, Davis and now Ramin, my top 3 are Ramin, Davis and Michael. Monique Hennessy says: March 18, 2012 at 1:45 am How is Gerard Butler 3rd and Anthony Warlow on 9th??!! What the?? Why is Gerard Butler even on this list? Kay says: March 18, 2012 at 3:03 am Come on, the favorite Phantom could be the acting as well as the singing. I think Gerard Butler was very good in the style of the original, Steve Harley. This was originally a “rocker” part until Crawford changed it up. Doing it on the big screen with closeups is a lot different than the stage versions so acting wise, I think Gerard excelled at bringing the “sexy” back and making most of us choose Phantom over Raoul. I know all the arguments, he was supposed to be a lot older, etc. but the fans of Ramin can’t agree with that. I thought Ramin did a great job of the stage version.

I haven’t seen JOJ do the part on stage, but his voice in the 25th anniversary “blew me away”! Bobbie March 18, 2012 at 3:07 am Why has JOJ been left out and he’s much better than Gerry Butler Haley says: March 19, 2012 at 4:33 am Okay, I am pretty content with this list. Except for the addition of Bowman and Butler. Really, I never liked Bowman as Chris, and I didn’t even know he at one point even played Phantom, really he is not nearly as liked as other Phantoms. Gerard, really?!? I give him the benefit that his acting was pretty good, and that he gave international awareness to the musical, but really not top 10 material. I do say we need to have some more Broadway Phantoms up there! I would also switch Ramin with JOJ, even though I believe they are almost as equally good! But at least they got the basic and the most important thing right on this list, and that is making Michael Crawford #1!

He created the role, and he embodied the Phantom with his voice, his acting, and his soul! Pretty good list overall! Gabrielle says: March 21, 2012 at 1:01 am Gerard beat John Owen Jones and Earl Carpenter. Tisk Tisk. And I personally do not like Micheal Crawford. Ramin should of been 1 hands down. Natty says: March 21, 2012 at 1:37 am really hoped John Cudia would be on this list as like #3 (he’s one of my favourites!) I do agree with most of this list though.. (: Christine Daae March 21, 2012 at 6:35 am Davis Gaines!!! March 22, 2012 at 2:44 pm What’s wrong with this ranking? Barbara says: March 22, 2012 at 2:47 pm Oh my ……as a non-English audience, I have to say that there must have some mistakes and misunderstandings in this list. I don’t think this list is fair and objective.

First of all, how can you put actors of musicals and movies together to compare ? What they needs of performance are very different.!!! And, what’s the basement of this rank? The acting? Or singing? I just think that some actors not deserve the ranking. As other comment said, this list miss some better actors, especially the Broadway’s. POTO is not a musical that you can write a review in a casual way. I think this article’s writer should tell that why he ranked like this. Ed says: April 8, 2012 at 3:00 pm Scott Davies should be on the top 10 list, as should Mark Mckerracher. You can get rid off Ramin Karimloo, he should never have been cast in the role, and John Owen Jones, he was a good Jean Valjean in the early days – late 90’s, but over time became complacent and stale. His portrayal of the Phantom is vocally powerful, but that’s the only positive. DottieV says: April 13, 2012 at 11:01 pm You are all wrong.

Dave Willetts who took over not long after Michael Crawford in London was the best phantom ever. His voice and portrayal of Phantom through his voice and acting was brilliant. He also played Jean Valjean in Les Mis. Anyone out there agree? Dominic Bartolone says: April 23, 2012 at 4:55 am I was able to see your #1, #3, and #10 selections perform the Phantom. I must say none of the other performers have anything on Anthony Crivello. He performed the role of Phantom with memorable grace and elegance. Also I do not think you should compare a movie actor’s role to a live performer. Again Anthony’s performance (acting and singing) was every bit as moving and more entertaining than even your #1 choice Michael Crawford. Duffy Tarantino says: April 23, 2012 at 3:38 pm I saw #1 and #10 an I loved both. I nust say you cannot understand how good a job they did until you see another performer do this role as i did when Anthony Crivello was out sick. Then you realize the difference of a top ten performer and some who is just ok.

I agree that while I loved the movie Gerard Butler doesn’t belong on ANY list of Phantoms. vincent jerosa says: April 24, 2012 at 2:43 am Really?! I mean really?! You listed Anthony Crivello as number ten! Are you kidding? Or, did you not proof read the numerical order before you posted your list? I’ll tell you what, with no disrespect to the many actor’s who have played the role, I believe a more accurate list would be Anthony Crivello (first place). Michael Crawford (second place). the remaining actor’s are tied for third place. Mr. Crivello, mastered the role of the Phantom. When he is on stage you can’t help but to give him all of your focus. His movements on stage are precise and with emotion. His voice is impeccable. He is the reason many audience members see the show multiple times! Sally says: April 25, 2012 at 9:43 pm No list of 10 can include all of the fine, deserving Phantom actors, but to have Gerard Butler in the place of one of them is ridiculous.

Billie Eaton says: April 26, 2012 at 9:08 pm Gerard Butler should not be on the list. Michael Crawford, THE BEST is rightly #1. When we saw Anthony Crivello in Vegas we sat in the front row. His grimacing and teeth gnashing were iritating-not good theatre, in my opinion. BTW, when we were in the hotel and also outside in the parking area, whose singing did we hear? Michael’s POTO’s cd, not Anthony! Mike Heisler says: May 20, 2012 at 4:57 am I have not heard all of these Phantoms so I cannot really say if most of them deserve to be on the list, but one thing I can say is that Anthony Crivello should not be at the bottom of the list, more towards the top of the list. Anthony has the intensity that role needs, not to mention an amazing singing voice. I put Anthony Crivello at number one since it was his performance that made me the Phan I am today in addition to that of all the ones I have seen, he is the most believable in that role.

And my guess the reason you hear the recording from Michael Crawford is that was the only recording at the time the play opened. Erin says: May 20, 2012 at 8:01 pm See Anthony Crivello this year before the Vegas show closes. You are in for the treat of your life! His voice is perfectly suited for one playing the role of an angel of music and the passion and emotion he brings to the role is unequaled! He is definitely the number one talent on this list. S. Kate November 9, 2012 at 11:13 pm Gerard Butler should not be on this list, let alone ranked above John Owen Jones. Uncool. Definitely approve of the top 2. Have only heard Michael Crawford sing, as opposed to watching Karimloo. Very different voices. They both win. CarolLynn says: July 30, 2013 at 3:03 am Davis Gaines was only mentioned one other time in all these postings?!! Wow. He really belong somewhere on this list. He was excellent in L.A. and I understand he did a great job as Raoul in New York.

I was a Michael Crawford snob when I bought The Phantom DVD. It took a while but you ride Butler kind of grew on me but he doesn’t belong here. How about making a Top-20 list and just leave room for more great singers? pony says: August 11, 2013 at 12:45 pm brad little should be in. he is precise on the words when singing with lots of emotion Bob Raab January 3, 2014 at 4:03 am I attended only 17 performances of Phantom in Los Angelas. I heard an interview with a woman who has attended 135 and that was two years before Phantom closed in LA. Michael Crawford was, well, enthralling. Robert Guillaume was an interesting Phantom but, for me, didn’t have the voice or the passion. Then came Davis Gaines. He had the voice. He had the passion. Wow, did he have the passion. The final scene, when Christine has left with Rouel, and the Phantom is in agony. Well, I saw it 5 or 6 times and it brought tears to my eyes.

It was the heart break we have all experienced at the end of a love that we wanted to keep forever. I have watched videos of other Phantoms, none come close to Davis Gaines. But then that opinion comes from my life experiences. JACK says: January 20, 2014 at 8:03 am DAVIS GAINES IS THE BEST I HAVE SEEN…HE MOVED ME TO TEARS……& A GREAT SINGER & ACTOR…….JACK ENGLISH…HOLLYWOOD guest says: February 27, 2014 at 10:23 pm Okay I honestly have to ask this for the people that have seen a fair amount of different versions of the Phantom. I’ve only seen the 2004 movie and the Royal Albert Hall performance. So why do people hate so much on Gerard? I personally liked his portrayal and his singing voice is my favorite of all the Phantoms I’ve heard sing (which is about 5 of the portrayals.. yeah. small amount, I know). It’s not as operatic. I find his voice really moving and it takes me out of reality whenever I listen to the 2004 soundtrack.

I also really enjoy Ramin’s performance. 🙂 Kent says: May 20, 2014 at 7:44 pm How many Phantoms have you seen? If hundereds of actors have played the role, how many do you need to see to be even mildly qualified to pass judgement? We saw Colm Wilkinson in Toronto, and he was marvelous. He ranks well ahead of the (unknown, but good) actor on the first(?) tour, and ahead of Gerard Butler. Brian says: June 16, 2014 at 7:15 pm The list needs to be updated as Cooper Grodin is performing as the phantom on the traveling Broadway tour. He is without a doubt, in the top 10. Maria E says: June 21, 2014 at 4:59 am Where is Hugh Panaro’s name? Is this list a joke? He’s is undoubtedly the best Phantom. Hannah R says: June 29, 2014 at 5:21 am Ramin is the best phantom ever!!! Have you seen him on broadway?

He’s gorgeous , he’s an amazing singer and , he just IS the phantom! I love him so awesome! Kevin says: July 24, 2014 at 5:23 am How did you miss Frank D’Ambosio. Was the Phantom in the San Francisco cast for its entire run…at one point, he was the longest running Phantom and one of the best. Stan July 26, 2014 at 9:32 am How about James Romick? says: July 28, 2014 at 9:34 pm I personally believe that Gerard Butler should be taken off this list completely, putting Ramin Karimloo as the best, and I think there are brilliant phantoms (that aren’t at famous as the ones in this list) that have been left out, for example: Gary Mauer is a brilliant phantom, as is Geronimo Rauch. Jorge says: September 14, 2014 at 4:53 am I’m just glad Crivello is in the top ten.

I saw him around 10 times (i know, not very impressive) during his tenure in Vegas, I even saw him in the last week he played the Phantom (yes, he was worth it) and he brought tears to my my eyes every single time during the All I ask of you reprise. Crawford deserves the top spot and I agree Panaro was snubbed, but Crivello is a great actor/singer and deserved at least the tenth spot. He is the reason I’ve traveled all the way to Broadway to watch TPOTO. Mark Sinning says: October 26, 2014 at 5:28 am Brad Little is the best Phantom I have heard. His deep baritone but amazingly high range gave the Phantom a sinister but seductive presence that is unique. He gets my got as the best Dean says: November 1, 2014 at 4:18 pm Gerard butler should not be on there. Can’t act, can’t sing. Hugh panaro was rightly left out, his singing style is boring and his acting is just bland, also he seems really arrogant. Best phantom by far is Ramin Karimloo.

He can sing, he can act, and he’s the only actor whose performance has made me cry. He changed the role, which no other actor has done, and people who say that he’s terrible clearly don’t see how he is playing the role. Michael Crawford should be #2, and John Owen Jones should be #3. margaret yosub says: November 26, 2014 at 7:51 am Just saw Phantom on Broadway with the greatest Phantom ever – Norm Lewis. His performance was breathtaking, fantastic, and most enjoyable singing I have ever heard and seen. Brian Harms says: November 28, 2014 at 12:28 am Jeff Hyslop should be on there. He was in the Vancouver production and was excellent, although I doubt virtually all people reading this would have even heard of him. I’m so happy that Robert Guillaume didn’t make the list – he was terrible. I couldn’t believe A.L.Webber cast him in the role. What was he thinking?.. Dan says: November 30, 2014 at 7:02 pm Geronimo Rauch surely makes the top ten.

Peter Karrie is the best I’ve seen, and the late Martin Smith who struggled with the role during his short stint was scintillating when it all clicked for him. To be honest it’s not really possible to create a list of the top ten because there have been so many phantoms, wonderful for many different reasons. LSG January 3, 2015 at 10:48 pm I agree with the other posters- take Gerard Butler off the list completely. For God’s sake, add Hugh Panaro and Davis Gaines. Annie says: January 5, 2015 at 1:46 am I threw up in my mouth a little when I saw Gerry Butler ranked over JOJ. I personally think JOJ and Ramin Karimloo should tie for first – JOJ for voice and Ramin for acting. Lucy says: February 28, 2015 at 1:49 pm Geronimo Rauch and Hugh Panaro deserve to be on this list, Gerard Butler needs to be kicked off. Ramin is my personal favourite, but I love Michael Crawford too.

Michael Yates says: March 6, 2015 at 7:46 pm While I would agree that Gerard Butler is nowhere near the best singing Phantom, his portrayal was more believable to me than some that I’ve seen. So whether or not he deserves to be on a top 10, he certainly was not a bad Phantom. That said, can’t believe John Cudia, Hugh Panaro and Howard McGillin aren’t on this list. I’d also like to give honorable mention to Gary Mauer, Jonathan Roxmouth, and Norm Lewis. I’m also rather excited to see James Barbour in the role later this month. MJB says: March 7, 2015 at 11:13 pm I’ve seen The Phantom 10 times – San Francisco, NY, London, Las Vegas, LA, Orange County, etc. to put Gerard Butler even into the top 100 is a disgrace. The role is for a singing actor – Butler does not qualify as a singer, and barely qualifies as an actor. The only thing I can say to his credit is that he didn’t try to sing it – he talked it.

For my money, the incredible Davis Gaines deserved to be near the top of the list. Right alongside with Michael Crawford. Barrie March 20, 2015 at 1:35 am What about the best of them all – the late Rob Guest nicole March 22, 2015 at 10:48 pm Colin Wilkinson. Hands down.absolutely. transcending. Awakening. Love him as phantom! Nenny March 26, 2015 at 1:01 am Ra-MIN! Ra-Min! Ra-MIN! Deliciously tormented interpretation! Bravo, Ramin, Bravo! HughPanaroPhantomLover says: April 1, 2015 at 10:52 pm How can you leave out Hugh Panaro!?!?!?!?! Best Broadway Phantom next to Michael Crawford! Don’t hate on Gerard, he only had 4 weeks of singing lessons and he isn’t a broadway professional singer. Don’t hate. HughPanaroPhantomLover April 1, 2015 at 10:52 pm PHANTOM FOREVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!

April 1, 2015 at 10:55 pm And what about Peter Joback? What, no love for Peter? Gwyneth says: May 14, 2015 at 1:47 am Colm Wilkison is my personal favorite, I am really happy he made this list, kind of bummed he didn’t get 3rd and that Gerard was on this list. Besides that I think it is pretty good! Would love to see Norm Lewis added and Hugh Panaro but you can’t simply name the top ten phantoms they are so many great ones! Justen says: July 22, 2015 at 10:03 am Gerard Butler may not have the greatest singing voice out of anybody who has portrayed the phantom, but I believe that his voice brought a darkness to the story. The darkness that a murder/ phantom should have. Gerard was never even musically trained and still sounds better then just about everybody who is giving him crap. He may not be my favorite but he definitely deserves some recognition for what he did with the role.

Ginny July 24, 2015 at 3:19 pm I loved Gerard Butler’s sensitiv portrait of the Phantom. Good voice too Jessica says: July 28, 2015 at 10:56 am I am going to be honest as much as I loved Michael Crawford I am going to have to DISAGREE with all of you and say Gerard Butler does deserve his place at number 3 he is the only phantom that I would have actually choose over Raoul and I loved the rawness of his voice. His voice isn’t “classically trained” but let’s not forget this is a musical and NOT an opera and when Webber was casting he wanted a Phantom with no classical training. I grew up listening to the MC and SB POTO CD over and over but I can appreciate what twist the movie had and I have actually retired the original soundtrack with the one from the movie because I LOVE Gerard Butler and Emmy Rossums voice. Say what you want but you want but POTO is not an OPERA it is a MUSICAL!

Cathy August 13, 2015 at 4:24 pm Cieran Sheehan should have been #2 behind Michael Crawford Karen Powell September 20, 2015 at 11:15 am John Owen – Jones wins hands down for me Max September 28, 2015 at 7:25 pm Colm Wilkinson is lucky to be on this list. He was by far the worst Phantom to have ever been cast! With a terrible singing voice and the most “hammy” acting I have ever seen. I’m glad that someone mentioned Jeff Hyslop, from the original Canadian Touring Production. He also performed the role in the final months of the original Toronto Production’s run. I saw him in Vancouver after working on the original Toronto Production, (starring Colm Wilkinson), for a year and a half. When I saw it with Jeff, I didn’t have high expectations. But he and the entire show was incredible. He made it very real. Especially after being saddled with seeing/hearing Colm repeatedly torturing the role and the entire show nightly.

But I should say that I’m quite surprised that no one has brought up even an “honourable mention” for Paul Stanley of KISS who replaced Jeff as the FINAL Phantom in the record-breaking 10 year Toronto run. He was better than I expected and not nearly as appreciated in the role as I feel he should be. It’s just to bad his run was so limited. But at least he has now been ‘mentioned’. Alex October 16, 2015 at 9:12 am Gerald Butler number 3 ? Seriously ? JOJ is top 3. October 23, 2015 at 7:39 am It’s got to be the original-Steve Harley, just ask Sarah Brightman! Ann says: November 6, 2015 at 11:36 am I agree with Dottie V the best phantom is Dave Willetts his voice his acting and interpretation,are brilliant Crawfords voice was not up to it and G Butler should never have got on the big screen as the phantom.

Cindy says: November 12, 2015 at 4:33 am I too agree that Michael Crawford is hands down the best Phantom. Although Gerard Butler was not the greatest, you all must remember that his version was meant for HOLLYWOOD. TELEVISION. NOT BROADWAY, therefore his role was entirely different and directed toward an entirely different audience. He performed as soundly as I think he could have based on that. Ramin is also extremely amazing. Michael J. Lazzeri says: November 18, 2015 at 1:50 am Well ! If nothing else, I get to be the ” fly in the ointment”, the ” pain in the backside” here because having seen the play 4 times with differing Phantoms, I have to say : 1. I was awed by Gerard Butler’s performance & singing. 2. I see a real snobbery here in some comments but for me, Butler was awesome. 3. On stage, Franc D’Ambrosio / Davis Gaines / Brad Little. I saw Mr. D’Ambrosio twice–he was just amazing. M. J.

Lazzeri Janine says: December 9, 2015 at 8:17 pm Michael Crawford forever. I’ve listened to so many Phantoms and absolutely no one can compare. He’s the only one that’s made me cry and still continues to do so. No need to see his acting, no need for a “handsome” face – his magical voice says it all. Ramin is a powerful singer but I didn’t like his interpretation at all and he over-emotes and over-sings at every chance. No comment on Gerard. I was drawn to the Crawford’s Phantom before I knew anything of what he looked like because THAT’S WHAT THE PHANTOM IS ABOUT, PEOPLE – the voice, and what that voice can do alone, in the dark, behind a mask, behind a disfigured man. Michael Crawford will live on as the most haunting, tragic, beloved Phantom of all time. Sherry says: December 15, 2015 at 2:49 am Shame on you for not putting Michael Gaines in at least #2 spot. He moved me in his performance in L.A. like no other. Butler was good but Gaines was great.

I’ve heard Michael Crawford and have seen the performance in N.Y. as well. I love Davis Gaines. RedHun says: December 25, 2015 at 1:46 am Colm wilkinson is by far the best phantom in my opinion. I think he should be at least in the top 3. Carol Kears December 31, 2015 at 4:42 am Michael Crawford’s interpretation so freakin’ beautiful only he could be #1 – n Norm Lewis deserving of a placement b/c he was fantastic in the role n made me fall in love with The Phantom all over again! And kudos to ALW for the best musical EVER! Eomund says: January 12, 2016 at 11:16 pm The hey?!?!?! Gerard Butler definitely deserved a part on this list. He’s one of my top 5 favorite Phantoms.- David Valois January 23, 2016 at 5:28 am Colm Wilkinson was, is and will always be the BEST POTO!

Anne c January 25, 2016 at 8:48 am I would love to see rhydian Roberts play phantom nicholas win says: January 28, 2016 at 5:43 am i wish that these guys could give great advice on how i could play this most memorable role in the greatest Andrew Lloyd webber musical as long as it will still remain to be London’s greatest love story and the brilliant original these actors are amazing bravo good on you mates Anniversary Special! 25 Phabulous Phacts In Honor of The Phantom of the Opera’s Broadway Birthday | Broadway Buzz | Broadway.com Anniversary Special! 25 Phabulous Phacts In Honor of The Phantom of the Opera’s Broadway Birthday Features By Lindsay Champion January 26, 2013 - 2:05PM Buy Tickets Find out 25 things you never knew about 'The Phantom of the Opera'! Composer Andrew Lloyd Webber was browsing a used bookstore in 1984 when he discovered a worn copy of The Phantom of the Opera, an out-of-print book by Gaston Leroux. He was inspired to write a Broadway musical about the haunting love story…and the rest is history!

On January 26, The Phantom of the Opera is celebrating its 25th anniversary on Broadway, and the longest-running musical in history continues to be one of the most sought-after tickets in town. In honor of Phantom's Broadway birthday, here are 25 fascinating facts about the Tony-winning musical. 1. Gaston Leroux’s The Phantom of the Opera was originally published as a poorly received serialized novel in 1909. 2. In early drafts of Phantom, the character of Christine was called “Kristin.” 3. Although the Phantom has no name in the musical, he’s called Erik in Gaston Leroux’s original novel. 4. Early Phantom rehearsals in London included animatronic rats, a white horse and real doves flying through the theater—these ideas were scrapped before previews began. 5. Director Hal Prince was briefly fired from the original London production, but was rehired again before rehearsals began. He went on to win a Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical. 6. It took four weeks and five people to build the original chandelier. 7.

Steve Harley was originally asked to play the Phantom in London (they even recorded a music video !), but the creative team ultimately decided to eliminate the Phantom’s rock edge and cast Michael Crawford instead. 8. When Lloyd Webber approached him to audition for Phantom, Michael Crawford assumed he was auditioning for the part of Raoul. He spent a year studying Nelson Eddy’s performance in the 1943 film adaptation before he discovered that Steve Barton had already been cast in the role. 9. The Broadway premiere of Phantom cost a then-record-setting $8 million to produce. 10. Lloyd Webber was so nervous about Phantom’s premiere that he couldn’t attend the performance. Producer Cameron Mackintosh had to bring him back to the theater for the curtain call. 11. Phantom won seven 1988 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Actor in a Musical (Crawford) and Best Featured Actress in a Musical ( Judy Kaye , now starring in Nice Work If You Can Get It). 12. Phantom became the longest-running show in Broadway history on January 6, 2006, overtaking the record set by Cats—it’s even in The Guinness Book of World Records! 13.

Twelve actors have played the Phantom on Broadway: Michael Crawford, Timothy Nolen, Chris Groenendaal, Steve Barton, Kevin Gray, Mark Jacoby, Marcus Lovett, Davis Gaines, Thomas James O’Leary, Howard McGillin, John Cudia, Jeff Keller, Ted Keegan, Brad Little, Gary Mauer and Hugh Panaro . 14. Howard McGillin, who starred in Phantom on Broadway for more than 10 years, holds the title of the world’s longest-running Phantom. 15. Current Phantom Hugh Panaro got his start playing Raoul on Broadway in 1991. 16. The Phantom wears contact lenses—one blue and one clouded. 17. The Phantom’s latex facial prosthetics used in the Broadway production are shipped from London. 18. Both Crawford and Panaro have accidentally gotten their lip prosthetics stuck to Christine while kissing her. 19. Applying the Phantom’s makeup initially took four hours—now, it’s down to less than 30 minutes. 20. Makeup artist Thelma Pollard has been with Phantom since the show opened on Broadway in 1988. 21.

Each performance of The Phantom of the Opera has 230 costumes, 14 dressers, 120 automated cues, 22 scene changes and 281 candles. 22. The “Masquerade” scene uses life-sized mannequins to make the party crowd seem larger. 23. Holy smokes! Phantom uses more than 500 pounds of dry ice and 10 fog and smoke machines in each performance. 24. Original Phantom cast member George Lee Andrews holds the Guinness World Record for the most performances in the same Broadway show—after 9,382 performances, he retired from Phantom in August 2011. 25. The Phantom of the Opera has been parodied on dozens of TV shows, including The Simpsons , Family Guy , South Park and SpongeBob SquarePants.

25 Years Strong, 'Phantom Of The Opera' Kills And Kills Again : NPR 25 Years Strong, 'Phantom Of The Opera' Kills And Kills Again Embed Embed 25 Years Strong, 'Phantom Of The Opera' Kills And Kills Again 25 Years Strong, 'Phantom Of The Opera' Kills And Kills Again Embed Embed The current cast of The Phantom of the Opera celebrated an unprecedented Broadway milestone Jan. 26, when the show hit its 25th anniversary. Joan Marcus hide caption toggle caption Joan Marcus The current cast of The Phantom of the Opera celebrated an unprecedented Broadway milestone Jan. 26, when the show hit its 25th anniversary. Joan Marcus Hugh Panaro is The Phantom and Sierra Boggess is Christine in the 25th anniversary cast of The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway. Joan Marcus hide caption toggle caption Joan Marcus Hugh Panaro is The Phantom and Sierra Boggess is Christine in the 25th anniversary cast of The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway. Joan Marcus The longest-running Broadway musical ever, Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera, celebrated Saturday another milestone: its 25th anniversary. When it all started Jan.

26, 1988, Ronald Reagan was president of the United States, a gallon of gas cost about 90 cents and a ticket to The Phantom of the Opera was a whopping $50. It was the hottest ticket in town. Times have changed, prices have changed, but that disfigured, tortured genius who haunts the Paris Opera House, creating havoc and causing the chandelier to fall, has endured. An invited-only audience, in black tie and gowns, packed the Majestic Theater on Saturday to celebrate the first show in Broadway history to run for a quarter century. Director Hal Prince, who's won 21 Tony Awards, including one for directing Phantom, has his theories about the show's unprecedented success. "I think the enduring appeal is because it's so romantic and because audiences escape into it," he says. "It has a world of its own." It also has those soaring Lloyd Webber melodies. The composer couldn't make it to the festivities — he's recovering from back surgery — but he provided a video message. Article continues after sponsorship "I'd just like to say, I'm missing this.

I really wouldn't have missed this for the world," he said, "but somebody will bore you with the statistics of the show and how long it's run and all of these sort of things, but it's not going to be me because I've forgotten them." Opening night curtain call, Jan. 26, 1988, features Steve Barton (Raoul), Harold Prince, Michael Crawford (The Phantom), Andrew Lloyd Webber and Sarah Brightman (Christine). Courtesy of The Phantom Company hide caption toggle caption Courtesy of The Phantom Company The Phantom of the Opera may be the most successful entertainment franchise of all time. It has grossed $5.6 billion worldwide — more than Avatar, more than Titanic, more than all the Star Wars films combined. A staggering 130 million people have seen the show in 28 countries and 148 cities in 13 languages. Soprano Sarah Brightman was married to Lloyd Webber when he was writing Phantom; she says he tailored the ingenue role of Christine just for her.

"He'd pull me in and say, 'Let's try this out,' and I'd sort of lead him through various things I knew, and together we — well, really he created everything, but I think I was definitely a muse at that time," she says. Brightman, wearing a silver tiara, was one of the guests of honor. After the performance, Prince and producer Cameron Mackintosh emceed a little ceremony, which invited the cast, orchestra and crew of Phantom, as well as dozens of former cast members to take a bow. Four actors, who've played The Phantom in New York, London, Stockholm and Toronto took the stage to sing a couple of songs. Then the guests went to the New York Public Library for a big anniversary party. Come Monday night, Phantom goes back to the business of breaking the longest-running Broadway musical record with every performance. House manager Peter Kulok will be there to make sure the audience is well taken care of. "There's some kind of magic to this show that keeps people coming back, time and time again," he says. "There are many regular 'Phans,' as they call themselves."

Question: Who originally played the title role in the Phantom of the Opera on the London stage?
Answer: Michael Crawford